The recent agreement between the US, Japan, and the Philippines has led to extensive military exercises in the South China Sea. These exercises involved Japanese and European soldiers acting as observers. Marcos believes that these exercises will change the dynamics of Southeast Asia, Asia, and the South China Sea in the future.
However, China sees the exercises differently, with a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman stating that they will have a destructive effect on regional security. The Philippine government responded by pointing out China’s aggressive behavior, exaggerated claims, and construction of military bases in the region.
China’s People’s Liberation Army’s actions in creating artificial islands in the South China Sea and building military bases have escalated tensions. In response to these actions, the Philippine and US navies will be rehearsing storming fortified islands to demonstrate their capabilities to China.
In Washington, there is concern over the war of words between China and the Philippines, as the risk of military escalation in the South China Sea is high. The hope is that China will cease its attacks on Philippine ships with increased US military presence, but China has responded by sending more ships to the disputed area and increasing patrols.